|
 |
Home : Energy Development : Transmission & Pipelines
Transmission & Pipelines
North Dakota has vast energy production potential but relatively low local demand for resource utilization. Lignite coal is an abundant resource; however, because of its relatively low BTU level and high moisture content, it is turned into electricity here rather than exported as a raw material. Likewise, North Dakota has a vast potential with wind resources.
|
North Dakota's current transmission grid is being utilized at near capacity. New transmission resources must be established in order to fully realize North Dakota's potential to develop and provide electricity to load centers in other parts of the country.
The Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator (Midwest ISO) is a voluntary organization comprised of more than 130 members representing the energy generation and transmission sectors in the Midwest and is charged with providing operation of and access to power lines in the Midwestern region and Manitoba.
The North Dakota Transmission Authority was created by the state legislature in 2005 to "facilitate, finance, develop and acquire" transmission in North Dakota. The Transmission Authority was created to build transmission capacity in the absence of other developers. The Transmission Authority may own transmission lines and contract for construction and operation. Financing is made possible from revenue bonds. The Authority must provide an exit strategy for any proposed project.
|
Likewise, in 2007, the North Dakota State Legislature created the North Dakota Pipeline Authority for the purpose of "diversifying and expanding the North Dakota economy by facilitating development of pipeline facilities to support the production, transportation, and utilization of North Dakota energy-related commodities." Oil exploration and production have increased dramatically in recent years, with monthly oil production more than doubling since 2005. Increased production levels have led to Pipeline Authority involvement in nearly a dozen projects.
Resources
NEW - Eastern Wind Integration and Transmission Study
|
|
|
 |
